Will Rishabh Pant Make His Comeback in the Ranji Trophy?
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Synopsis
Rishabh Pant's potential return to competitive cricket is generating excitement among fans. Set for an assessment at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, Pant aims to make his comeback in the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches. His recovery could pave the way for his inclusion in the Test series against South Africa, making this a story to watch closely!
Key Takeaways
- Rishabh Pant is likely to return in the Ranji Trophy later this month.
- His return is contingent on medical clearance from the BCCI’s CoE.
- Pant has been training rigorously and showing promising recovery signs.
- His performance could impact the upcoming Test series against South Africa.
- Pant previously scored 479 runs at an average of 68.42 in England.
New Delhi, Oct 6 (NationPress) Rishabh Pant, the wicketkeeper-batter for India, is anticipated to return to competitive cricket with Delhi in the 2025/26 Ranji Trophy later this month, contingent upon receiving medical clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) located in Bengaluru.
According to IANS, Pant has been undergoing rehabilitation at the CoE since mid-September and is set for another evaluation of his right foot next week by the medical team.
Sources indicate that Pant, who celebrated his 28th birthday on Saturday, has been diligently training at the CoE and appears to be on schedule to return to the field shortly.
This month, Pant commenced his batting practice in the CoE nets, suggesting that his recovery is progressing exceptionally well.
“Given the current trajectory, Pant could receive clearance soon. If deemed fully fit by the medical staff, he might be available for the two Ranji Trophy matches in Delhi starting October 25. The match against Hyderabad on October 15 may be too soon for him to test his match fitness. His return to the Delhi team hinges on this crucial clearance,” sources informed IANS on Monday.
Pant sustained a fracture in the metatarsal of his right foot during the fourth Test against England in Manchester in late July, following a mishap while attempting a reverse sweep off Chris Woakes.
This injury forced him to retire hurt at 37, with subsequent scans confirming the fracture. Remarkably, the following day, Pant returned to bat, despite wearing a moonboot, and eventually scored 54 runs.
Since then, the lengthy recovery period has led to Pant missing the ongoing two-match Test series against the West Indies and the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia, commencing on October 19 in Perth.
If Pant performs well in the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches for Delhi against Himachal Pradesh and Puducherry at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, he could earn a spot in India’s squad for the two-match Test series against World Test Championship holders South Africa, starting November 14 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Pant, who serves as India's vice-captain in Tests, gathered 479 runs in seven innings at an impressive average of 68.42 during the tour of England, including two magnificent centuries in the series opener at Headingley, Leeds.
Point of View
Rishabh Pant's return is a significant development in Indian cricket. His journey of recovery and potential comeback embodies the resilience and determination inherent in sports. The nation supports Pant, eagerly awaiting his return to the field, which could significantly impact upcoming matches and the team's dynamics.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Rishabh Pant expected to return to competitive cricket?
Rishabh Pant is likely to return to competitive cricket in late October during the Ranji Trophy, pending medical clearance.
What injury did Rishabh Pant sustain?
Rishabh Pant suffered a metatarsal fracture in his right foot during the fourth Test against England in late July.
What is the significance of Pant's return?
Pant's return is crucial as he could significantly strengthen the Delhi team in the Ranji Trophy and potentially play in the Test series against South Africa.
How has Rishabh Pant's recovery been progressing?
Pant's recovery has been progressing well, with training and batting sessions at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence indicating he is on track for a return.
What matches will Pant participate in if cleared?
If cleared, Pant could participate in the Ranji Trophy matches for Delhi against Himachal Pradesh and Puducherry.
